At SensationALL, co-regulation is at the very core of what we do. By modelling calm and regulated behaviour, children feel safe and can settle more easily.
What is it?
Co-regulation means using ourselves as the primary tool for regulation: our breath, body language, tone of voice, and rhythm help to shape a child’s nervous system. A dysregulated adult cannot regulate a dysregulated child so maintaining a calm presence provides the foundation for all the techniques we use here at SensationALL.
Why it matters:
Neurologically, children borrow regulation from adults before they can self-regulate. By reading our state, children can pick up on feelings of safety through our tone of voice, facial expression, and posture.
This means that when we slow down, they slow down; when we brighten and become more animated, they become more alert!
Why it works:
Co-regulation has to come before self-regulation. Children borrow our from nervous system. When we are grounded, their bodies detect safety and begin to settle.
Feelings of safety. Warm eye contact at the child’s level, soft facial muscles, and a friendly voice signal “safe” to the brain, which eases the flight or fight response.
Emotional mirroring. As humans we unconsciously copy postures, facial expressions, and rhythms. If an adult has a slow, steady rhythm a child will mirror this (heart rate, breath, movement).
Sensory variation: o Calming: using deep pressure techniques and predictable rhythm can help calm dysregulation. o Alerting: using a bright and friendly voice, faster tempo and an upright posture can help children feel more alert
Naming sensations. We can use our words to bring awareness to sensations: “Your hands look tight; let’s soften them together”. This builds body awareness and helps young people understand they have a choice about how to feel.
Building tolerance. Our calm presence widens a child’s capacity to feel big feelings without tipping over into shutdown or chaos.
What can we do as adults?
As adults, we can support children when they are dysregulated by thinking about our body, voice and actions.
Body
Grounded stance (feet hip-width, weight through heels), relaxed shoulders, open hands.
Get low (kneel/sit) to reduce visual threat and power distance.
Breathe visibly: in through nose, longer out-breath (count 4 in / 6 out).
Proximity: offer presence at an angle (not face-on). Always gain consent for touch.
Language: validate + guide (“You’re frustrated. I’m here. Let’s press hands together… now two slow breaths.”)
Actions
Model self-regulation out loud (“I’m slowing my breath… shoulders down… now I can think.”)
Offer regulating choices (calm or alert) matched to need.
Shape the environment: reduce visual/auditory load for calming; add rhythm/novelty for alerting.
Five steps to co-regulation!
Next time you want to help a child to regulate their behaviour, try using our 5-step system:
Ground (you and child): feet down • long exhale • soften jaw • slow hands Connect: name + validate their feelings • be at their level • warm face/eyes Guide: offer two choices (calm vs alert) Practice: regulate together (you lead with rhythm) Close: name the shift • return to task.
Co-regulation is a powerful tool. By role modelling a calm state we can help others feel calm and grounded too.
Keep up to date with the latest SensationALL Self-Regulation Strategies on our socials!
At SensationALL we frequently use vibration as a sensory regulation tool to support alert levels, self-regulation, and reconnecting with the body.
What is it?
Vibration involves using objects that produce rhythmic buzzing or shaking sensations on the body, such as vibrating cushions, handheld massagers, toothbrushes, or simple activities like humming against a surface.
Why it matters:
Vibration stimulates both the tactile and proprioceptive systems. Depending on individual needs, it can boost alertness—helping to “wake up” the body and mind—or soothe and regulate by bringing focus back into the body and releasing tension. It’s especially beneficial for children who struggle with body awareness, emotional regulation, or focus.
Vibration is strong, predictable, and easy to control. This input can calm an overwhelmed system, energise a low-energy body, or enhance awareness of limb positioning.
One way we incorporate vibration is through vibration plate equipment, which sends vibrations to the body, stimulating muscles and improving lymphatic flow, reducing blood pressure, and increasing circulation—factors that enhance focus, mood, and concentration.
Here are some examples of vibration tools useful in therapy and play during daily routines:
Whole-body vibration plates: children can stand, sit with feet on, or place hands on the plate—great for grounding and regulation.
Handheld vibration massagers: gentle, soft-head devices suitable for quick spot treatments on hands, shoulders, or calves (avoid heavy-duty “massage guns” for children).
Vibrating cushions or pillows: children can sit or lean against them, ideal for calm-down areas or classroom seating.
Vibrating toys: stuffed animals, Fidgets, or balls that vibrate—engaging and fun for younger children.
Vibrating toothbrushes: useful for oral-motor stimulation, feeding prep, and desensitisation for oral sensitivities.
Vibrating pens or writing tools: aid hand awareness before handwriting and make fine motor tasks more fun.
DIY options include small battery-operated handheld fans (without blades) or clip-on vibrating pet brushes, which are soft and safe.
Safe use of vibration is crucial—our Golden Rules include:
Always offer Choice and Control!
Use short bursts (10-30 seconds), then follow with movement or play.
Observe their response—calmer? More alert? Overstimulated? Adjust accordingly.
Understanding personal feelings about vibration helps select the most beneficial type:
Low energy
slightly stronger vibrations in short bursts, targeting large body areas first, then hands for fine motor skills
paired with quick heavy work and focus tasks.
Over-responsive/anxious
very gentle, predictable vibrations, starting with hands/feet, then the torso; avoid face/abdomen until trust is established
incorporate slow breathing, deep pressure squeezes, and quiet spaces, gradually progressing to play.
Mixed emotions
offer a choice menu with questions like “which spot?”, “how strong?”, “how long?”
alternate between heavy work and calming breaths.
Vibration helps the brain “notice the body” more clearly, helping to regulate the senses and bring a sense of calm, or energy, to your life!
Keep up to date with the latest SensationALL Self-Regulation Strategies on our socials!
At SensationALL, we use a wide variety of sensory-informed strategies during our sessions and interactions with people with neurodivergent conditions and additional support needs.
In this article, Clinical Lead, Rebekah, explains why these approached are important, and how they can benefit you or your loved one.
Deep Pressure
What is it?
Deep pressure stimulation (DPS) means applying consistent, gentle weight or compression to the body.
This can be through weighted blankets, firm hugs (with consent), compression garments, or activities like pushing/pulling heavy objects.
How does it work?
Deep pressure activates the body’s proprioceptive system and sends signals to the brain that help reduce anxiety, increase focus, and create a feeling of safety. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who may experience sensory overload or dysregulation!
Here are a few suggestions for activities based on age groups that incorporate deep pressure!
Young children (ages 2-6)
Compression hugs or “body sandwich” with cushions
“Steamroller” game (child lies under a blanket/mat or cushion and is gently rolled
over with pressure)
Rolling in a blanket (like a burrito)
Animal walks: bear crawl, crab walk — heavy work through limbs
Tug-of-war or pulling toys
Children (ages 7-12)
Weighted lap pads during seated tasks (school, homework)
Heavy work jobs: pushing laundry baskets, carrying books, stacking chairs
Deep pressure massage or brushing protocol (e.g., Wilbarger)
Yoga poses with joint compression (downward dog, child’s pose with hands
pressing into floor)
“Pillow pile crash”: jumping into a beanbag or soft pile
Fidget tools that provide resistive feedback (therapy putty, stress balls)
Introduce self-advocacy: “When I feel jittery, I can do __ to feel better.”
Teens (ages 13+)
Compression vests or snug athletic clothing
Weighted blankets or wraps during relaxation, sleep, or transitions
Wall push-ups, planks, or resistance band exercises
Therapeutic massage or self-massage tools (foam rollers, vibrating pads)
Carrying a loaded backpack briefly (not for long periods)
Using gym equipment for proprioceptive input: rowing machines, resistance training
If you find that deep pressure works for you, it might be worth considering how this can be part of your everyday routine. Here’s a few examples of how deep pressure can be applied to your daily routine:
Morning: Wall pushes, body squeezes, weighted breakfast chair pad
School: Lap pad, heavy backpack (briefly), resistance putty during listening
Afternoon: “Heavy work” chores or play, trampoline or crash pad time
Transitions: Compression vest, bear hug, or pillow sandwich before car rides or errands
Bedtime: Massage, weighted blanket, yoga or child’s pose
When using these strategies, it is important to follow a number of safety tips!
Always person-led: Deep pressure should never be forced; it must feel safe and comforting!
Time-limited: Weighted blankets or vests should be used for 20 minutes at a time.
Observe response: Signs of dysregulation (sweating, agitation, zoning out) means it’s too much input.
Use appropriate weight: Weighted items should be around -10% of the child’s body weight, or minus 1-2lbs, depending on modality. Always ensure you are adjusting the weight and communicating with the person – deep pressure can vary for everyone!
Pair with co-regulation: Use deep pressure WITH verbal reassurance and a soothing tone.
Deep pressure is a powerful, non-verbal language of safety. It tells the body: you are grounded, you are held, you are safe. When used respectfully, it becomes a ritual of care, a bridge between nervous system healing and daily life.
Follow us on socials for more useful self-regulation tools and strategies!
So far this summer, we have had a lot of fun at a whole host of different activity groups!
Every session run by our wonderful practitioners guarantees opportunities for play. Although our service users see these sessions as a chance to get involved in fun activities, what they may not realise is that our practitioners have designed activities around sensory regulation strategies so they are learning while they are playing!
Regulating our senses looks different for everyone, whether they are neurodivergent or not. We all have different requirements and varying factors that may impact our sensory needs. For many neurodivergent children, their senses can become easily overwhelmed which can manifest in flight, fight or freeze responses, often making it difficult for them to engage in day to day activities.
We spoke to Rebekah Moorhouse, one of our lead practitioners, who shared two types of regulation strategies: alerting and calming. These cover a variety of different energy levels and cater to lots of different sensory requirements.
Examples of Alerting Strategies
These strategies come in handy when a person is feeling withdrawn or sleepy. Some of these examples might help to stimulate the senses and work as an energy boost:
Fidget tools (spiky or resistive textures)
High energy movements like bouncing, jumping and dancing!
Bright or natural lighting!
Engaging in preferred interests/special interests
Examples of Calming Strategies
When a person is feeling too overstimulated, they may need some grounding techniques to relax. A few examples are:
Quiet spaces / sensory tents or dens
Sensory bins (soft rice, sand, water play)
Journaling or drawing feelings
Slow, rhythmic rocking or swinging
At SensationALL, our sensory rooms provide the ultimate space for peacefulness, with the use of colourful projectors, ambient music and comfortable surroundings. These safe spaces can also be recreated at home with any items that bring you comfort and help you relax, like fuzzy blankets and cushions.
There you have it! It can be trial and error to find what works for your child, but the summer months provide a great opportunity to experiment with different techniques. If you find something that works, why not make it a regular part of your routine!
Follow us on our social media pages for more top tips and information about upcoming events!
One thing we know how to do at SensationALL is how to make our sessions fun!
Our creative team use a wide range of games to get youngsters moving their bodies and trying different sensory experiences. Play allows practitioners to implement clinical practices that are vital to improve self-regulation so youngsters are building skills without even realising it!
We asked practitioners, Michael and Rebekah to tell us how they have been using the classic game ‘Marco Polo’ in their sessions recently…
Why we play Marco Polo
Many neurodivergent people have difficulty with impulse control meaning they often respond to urges, thoughts or situations in extreme ways. We work with individuals to improve their self-awareness so they can feel in control whenever they are triggered by sensory stimulus or busy environments.
As Rebekah explains, “we play Marco Polo as it is perfect to strengthen the nervous system while building youngster’s tolerance of stressful situations“. The game’s format of start/stop actions supports inhibitory control (our ability to think before reacting) giving youngsters chance to practice managing their impulses.
There is a ‘rush’ element at the start of the game when the players must race to find a hiding spot, so they need to move quickly and make a decision. Once in their hiding place, they must stop, stay still and be quiet, forcing them to fight the urge to move and make noise.
How to play Marco Polo
1. Choose a ‘catcher’ and blindfold them
2. Other players choose a hiding place
3. The ‘Catcher’ will call out ‘Marco’ and the players respond ‘Polo’ – the ‘Catcher’ follows the sound until they find each player.
During play, the game’s rules encourage them to focus their attention, behaviour, thoughts, and emotions by pausing and then using their reasoning to shout ‘polo’ at the right time.
The game allows players to experience how the fight, flight and freeze responses feel in their body through positive, fun activities.
As the catcher gets closer to those hiding, they will experience heightened emotions before returning the nervous system to a state of calm. Going through this sequence of feelings repeatedly demonstrates that they are safe in their body and helps them learn to manage and respond appropriately and safely.
By introducing these experiences via a fun game, we reduce negative reactivity which may be dangerous or harmful. Over time youngsters will build their tolerance (slowly!) to stress.
Plus, all games allow children to practice turn taking and social interaction – so there are lots of benefits!
There are lots of games that can be played at home with the same effect:
Hide & Seek
Stuck in the Mud
Floor is Lava
Simon Says
Freeze Tag
Musical Statues
Why not choose a game for you and your family to do at home – you could make it a regular feature in the week.
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Most people look forward to the festive period but if you are neurodivergent then it can exacerbate issues you already find tricky… changes in routine, activities and expectations.
Some of our ‘neuro-spicy’ staff and families have collaborated to pull together this list of tips and suggestions to help you tackle the Christmas and New Year period. We’ve even included some handy templates and resources!
Own your own Christmas!
It’s ok to do your version of whatever you want, or need, to do!
Be by yourself, have no decorations, eat your usual favourite foods, stay in jammies, play with old familiar toys, watch the same old TV programmes, open presents (do they need wrapped?) when you feel like it… whatever helps you and your family to cope with these different festive experiences.
Reducing demands can help avoid overwhelm and meltdowns, so everyone can self-regulate.
Social demands can be high at this time of year, so try to be aware of your own social battery and be selective about what you commit too; even if this means missing a gathering or leaving early. Space out social events to make sure you and your family have time to recover and decompress.
Sensory Solutions
Reducing sensory overload can be tricky at this time of year. Here are some ways to cope:
Create a safe/quiet space with sensory supports and familiar comfy clothes/blankets or ear defenders if needed.
Consider your environment. How can you reduce food smells, lighting or noise? Does changing the environment help; take time out in a quiet, safe space, go outside/for a drive.
Use familiar sensory tools and resources. If you are going out remember to take your favourite sensory items with you. Being in busy or unfamiliar social settings could result in an increase in stimming behaviour and greater reliance on sensory tools.
Communicate. Explain to people if you or your loved one is feeling overwhelmed. Why not encourage the whole family to use our energy battery to share how they are feeling – you can even turn it into a game! If the adults/non-neurodivergent people model some regulating activities (massage, deep breathing, bear hugs, active calming etc.) then it becomes the norm. Brief the whole family on what the triggers or signs of dysregulation are for you and tell them what your sensory solutions and strategies are.
Plan sensory breaks or active moments try to avoid sensory overwhelm by proactively taking time out to regulate and recharge.
Plan, Prepare & Prioritise
Preparing for all the changes to routine and expectations is so important! If you introduce visual supports such as calendar countdowns, social stories, schedules in advance then you/your neurodivergent loved-one will feel more in control. Having a set routine of activities can help many, others might prefer having a choice of what activities they do or what order they do them in. Use visual choice boards so they can choose and during activities, timers can be great to define the start and end.
There can be a lot of anxiety and/or excitement associated with Christmas, especially Christmas eve when sleeping may be even more difficult. Prioritise some relaxation exercises and wind-down time before bedtime to try ease the transition to sleep (remember, relaxation for some can be both low and high energy!).
Trying to juggle everyone’s needs and expectations at this time of year can be very stressful. It is almost impossible to achieve this. It can be particularly tricky having some children or adults in the household who can and want a more traditional Christmas, balancing that with those who find it more difficult and require their own version. Remember to use your usual strategies and techniques – if that means using separate rooms, each doing different activities at different times, using screen time, fidgets/sensory supports, limiting time at the table, eating under the table, particularly at unfamiliar environments or in a group situation, that is ok.
Maybe having a code word, gesture or symbol card to demonstrate a need for support between family members could work. Remember your own needs – take the time and space to calm your chaos: step outside into the cold air, take some deep breaths, listen to your favourite music!
Use our resources!
Christmas expectations template
Fill this template in and share with others to help them understand your needs.
We know it can be hard to initiate conversations with family or friends about why you and your loved-ones do things differently at Christmas so hopefully this will make it a little easier.
By explaining your requirements you can set expectations which will help them understand and accommodate your needs so everyone has a good time!
For those of us with school aged youngsters, the summer holidays can present a daunting period of several weeks when we’re out of normal routine which is particularly hard to navigate for individuals with neurodivergent conditions.
Many families living with neurodivergent or complex conditions can’t access or enjoy the same holidays or events as those with neurotypical youngsters and we understand that finding opportunities to suited to your families needs is difficult.
We are here to support you with our 8 top practical tips and some useful resources to make your summer a little bit easier…
1. Set a routine
Give structure to unstructured time! Youngsters are used to the daily timetable that comes with school, from leaving the house on time to set mealtimes and designated playtime and for most neurodivergent children, routine = comfort and safety.
To ease the transition to holidays, it can be vital to keep some level of routine so your young person will understand what is expected of them at different points of the day/week.
Create structure by using a visual timetable or chatting through the day’s plans in advance, a visual family calendar is a great way to plan out the week or even the month. At SensationALL, we regularly use ‘now and next’ boards to clearly communicate with youngsters e.g. “now we are playing in the garden, next we will go to the shop“.
It’s important to build in their choices (even if it’s from your shortlist), to promote a sense of involvement and control for them. Just remember, your routine should reflect what works well for you and your family.
Here are some templates you can print to create your routine…
July calendar template
August calendar template
Activity Visuals
Now/Next planner template
2. Set realistic expectations
Expectations of what the day/holiday will be like often sets us up for failure. Remember, the perfect day is different for everyone!
It’s so hard not to compare yourself to others and aim for what society expects you to do during the summer holidays. The small talk at the school gates can evoke anxiety and even disappointment about your plans… “you going away this year?”, “planning to take the kids to [insert name of popular event/play facility]?” Aaargh!!
The best way to overcome those feelings is by being realistic about your family’s boundaries and adapting your plans to suit. Expect multiple changes throughout the holidays (to diet, sleep, behaviour) as emotions will fluctuate with daily changes in activities and routines. Be flexible – if something isn’t going to plan, change the plan!
Our adult expectations of the “perfect” family day are often unrealistic – be kind to yourself by avoiding unnecessary expectations. Why force yourself to go abroad or be in busy environments if the stress is going to be too much. Your youngster will have a better time if the experience is relaxed and fun – they don’t remember the small details that we do. And, don’t feel bad if your plans aren’t as elaborate or busy as other families – your version of an ideal day is enough!!!
3. Individualise the plan
Make your plans together as a family, so everyone can suggest an activity they’d like to do during the holidays – picnics, trips to the local park, having a movie afternoon – whatever they like doing! This will give them a sense of control while empowering their sense of self as their interests and preferences bring comfort and stability.
Every child is unique and will present differently with individual needs. You are the expert when it comes to your child, so don’t compare with others do what’s right for you your child and your family. Keep using any strategies that work in term-time.
Make sure to include time for relaxing or downtime as it can be tempting to have fill the days with activities and adventures but often this is overwhelming for both them and us. Maybe alternate activity days with low key days at home. The odd PJ day is a great idea!
Use our Energy Ladders templates to manage everyone’s emotions throughout the holidays. Why not create a personalised one for each member of the family so everyone can use it to communicate and highlight what they need.
4. Prepare!
Do some role-play if you are going on holiday or having days out as it can be overwhelming for our individuals if they don’t know what an event/place may be like, or what will happen when they get there.
Many venues have video walk-through’s/photos or generic scenarios can be found online to watch beforehand. Making a checklist of expectations (to mark off as they happen) can be a good way of manage expectations. Role-playing the event helps to prepare them, e.g. pretending you’re in the airport, going through customs, pretend to scan the suitcase etc.
Remember to COMMUNICATE! One of the biggest causes of anxiety is the unknown. Chat through the day’s plan, talk about feelings about an event, use visuals to communicate (could be photos on your phone, symbols or hand drawn pictures, checklists, schedules, coping strategy cards etc.). Communicate as a family, chatting through concerns, needs and expectations as a group “what shall we do if“… to help each family member feel prepared.
6. Ask for help
Many places, events, and businesses will have accommodations for those with additional needs or neurodivergent conditions but sometimes they aren’t obvious and too often we feel embarrassed or afraid to ask.
Lots of venues provide free carer places or sensory kits/visual guides and there may be quieter routes/areas you can access. Wearing a sunflower lanyard can be helpful to alert staff to your family’s possible support needs, and can even reduce waiting times or the need to queue.
7. Take care of you
Constantly thinking of our child’s needs can be exhausting! Often we are surviving on little sleep, or virtually no respite from our caring roles. It’s vital that you take care of you too!
Say ‘no’ to things that will overstretch you. Ask for support from others (a partner, relative or friend) who can watch the children while you have a shopping trip, walk or drive by yourself – whatever you need to stay sane!
Find your Tribe! Never forget… you are part of a wider parenting ‘tribe’ of families going through similar things who are also desperate for company.
“Taking care of myself does not mean me first, it means… me too”
Reach out to a friend, message a social media group chat, or email us at SensationALL. It’s highly likely someone else will be up for that trip to the park or be available for a coffee and chat. Support from others on outings can make or break the trip.
Even though SensationALL’s sessions fill up quickly, our network of families are always available via the Facebook forum!
8. Keep it sensory
Sensory activities and toys are great for keeping youngsters regulated. Never leave home without a sensory bag of tricks containing their favourite fidgets or comforters.
Build a mix of high and low energy activities into your schedule so to manage periods when they are feeling over or under stimulated. Active calming exercises like obstacle courses, skipping, running or bouncing are perfect for those with excess energy. While it’s a great idea to keep a selection of calming activities in reserve for whenever you need them to stay indoors or bring their energy down.
Here are some of our SensationALL sensory activities that can easily be done at home. There’s things to make, bake and feel great with high energy activities like the scavenger hunt (perfect to keep youngsters focused on a task while you’re out and about) or the lower energy word search which is great for those who find cognitive exercises relaxing…
It may seem like a long time away but keep focused on the return to school as, it will present yet ANOTHER change for youngsters who have probably just got used to the holiday routine.
A few weeks before school restarts, why not deliberately drive or walk past the school or go to the school playground. Use the calendar to have a countdown so it’s clear how many days there are before school starts.
Why not make the back-to-school shopping a fun activity they can be part of? Going into shops might not be possible but get them to choose their new school bag or lunchbox online so they feel involved.
For older children, use what you know about their new schedule, classes, peers to prepare them for the transition to a new class or school. Stay positive by highlighting the things they like about school and emphasise opportunities that a new year presents i.e. better school lunches, more variety of classes etc. The week before school it can be really helpful to get back into the early morning routines (for us as well as them!).
No matter what you do this summer, we hope you have a SensationALL time! Remember, to celebrate the days/times when things go well!
At SensationALL, we know that Halloween is one of the events in the year that divides people as, while it is a fun celebration for most, many families living with neurodivergent individuals find it a difficult and challenging experience.
If you want to celebrate Halloween this year, here are a few suggestions of how to make it a happy and fun experience for your family…
Plan
Decide what you and your family can enjoy (or perhaps just tolerate!) and make plans – do you want to carve a pumpkin, dress up, go to a party, or even go Trick or Treating? Planning in advance gives you a chance to help youngsters with additional support needs understand the event and decide how they want to participate so they feel more in control.
Top tip – Show them examples of different activities. Visual stories are useful for introducing different options for celebrating so they can vote for what they want to do. Try these social stories from Little Puddins:
But, always be flexible – you may need to change plans at short notice to suit your neurodivergent person!
Prepare
Use a countdown in the run up to activities or events – use visual schedules to clearly identify what is happening when.
If dressing up – practice wearing the costume a few times. Consider giving the costume a sensory element (e.g. soft, furry, cosy etc.) or maybe attach a fidget toy to it. Some people like masks to hide behind but others find them constrictive – let your neurodivergent person choose the outfit and how dressed up they want to be. Pinterest is a great source of ideas like these sensory costume suggestions.
Do some role play of the Trick or Treating process. Only make them hold the bucket/bag if they want to and decide together beforehand if they are happy to speak to people or if they want parents/siblings to talk for them.
Top tip– use photos from the internet/social media to show them examples of different costumes they might see when out and about to prepare them for people wearing masks or scary outfits.
Have an exit strategy
We all know that the best laid plans often don’t work out so it’s a good idea to have an exit strategy.
That could be a plan B option if your youngster refuses to do what you previously agreed – a relaxing Halloween craft or making a Halloween themed snack might be more achievable.
If you do make it out and about, then agree a signal for them to give if they start to feel overwhelmed so you know when it’s time to head home or to a quiet place.
Make it fun!
Halloween can be fun in lots of different ways and there is no “right” way to do it.
They might only wear part of a costume or go Trick or Treating to 1 or 2 houses (or just their grandparent’s house!) or watch while you carve the pumpkin. However they choose to take part, celebrate it and enjoy the small successes with them.
No matter what you do this Halloween, you know your family best so choose the best way to take part without stress. And if your neurodivergent person doesn’t want to do anything at all that’s absolutely fine!
To celebrate World Book Day (Thursday 7th March) we thought we’d share with you our top tips for making a DIY sensory story!
The benefits of sensory stories for individuals with multiple support needs are endless – they help capture their imagination, introduce new sensory experiences, develop language and social interaction. That’s why we use them in many of our groups here at SensationALL, for both children and adults.
To make your own sensory story at home follow these simple steps:
Choose a book, story or theme that you like
Keep it brief – shorten the story and simplify if necessary
Keywords – think about who/what/where/doing words
Use props – think about turning the key words into physical objects – things to touch and smell
Noise – use sounds as much as possible such as songs and clapping. Actions and Makaton signs are also really useful
Be imaginative – don’t worry if your prop isn’t literal, be inventive and creative
Have fun! Most important thing is to enjoy the journey the story takes you on
Here are some of the items we used in recent sensory stories…
